In Paris Leaders Must Accelerate Clean Energy and Protect Our Children from Climate Change

WASHINGTON (November 27, 2015) – Leaders from more than 150 nations around the world are gathering next week in Paris for crucial negotiations, hoping to reach a new international agreement addressing the global environmental challenge of our time, climate change.

Following is a statement from Rhea Suh, president of the Natural Resources Defense Council:

“Leaders of the world have a vital mission in Paris: Accelerate our 21st Century energy revolution that is shifting the world away from dirty fossil fuels of the past to the cleaner—and smarter—energy solutions that will power our future, and safeguard our children from dangerous changes in our climate.

“That means cementing real commitments from 192 countries to cut their carbon pollution levels. It means tools to make compliance transparent and verifiable. And it means money to help poor countries cope with the consequences of climate change, and financing to help them invest in clean energy options themselves.

“The spirit of Paris has fired the global conscience throughout history. As world leaders gather to map out real action against climate change, we'll be counting on that spirit, more than ever, to win the fight for our children and future generations.”